You may have thought about counselling for some time, then put it off when things felt easier. Perhaps you want help but feel anxious about speaking in front of your partner. You do not need a polished explanation of your relationship before making an enquiry. A starting point can be simply that something between you feels difficult and you would like help understanding it.
What are you hoping will change?
Before a first appointment, consider one or two concerns you would like to discuss. Are conversations turning into arguments? Do you feel distant from each other? Have you reached a decision that you cannot talk through at home? You can bring questions as well as problems.
Relate explains that partners may begin counselling with different hopes, and that finding an agreed focus is part of the work. Counselling does not promise that you will stay together. It can also help you understand your choices when you are uncertain about the relationship.
A chance to understand the process
The BACP describes a first session as an opportunity to explain what is troubling you, learn how the counsellor works and agree the terms of the counselling. Ask about confidentiality and its limits, fees, cancellations and how any individual conversations would be handled within couple work. You are allowed to ask for something to be explained again.
It also matters how you feel in the room. Can you speak about a concern? Do you understand what is being offered? The first conversation gives you an opportunity to consider whether this is the right support for you.
Counselling with Anne
Anne offers an impartial setting in which each partner can speak and be listened to. The work can explore difficulties with communication, closeness and recurring conflict. You do not have to settle every issue before you arrive, or agree on whose account is correct.
If you are considering a first appointment, contact Anne to discuss what you are looking for and whether couple counselling may be suitable. Her practice is in Axminster, with online and telephone counselling also available.